When people think of maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance, many consider external interventions; such as skin care routines and cosmetic procedures you can have done. These things do help, but what’s happening inside your body is equally important. Hydration is absolutely crucial.

In fact, if you’re regularly dehydrated, you’ll look older than you are, regardless of your skin care routine. Here is the best bit though—staying hydrated is one of the easiest methods After all, you only need to drink a glass of water.

Let’s now look at this in more detail, including the impact of hydration on your skin and how hydration helps you stay young looking in other ways. We’ll also look at the best ways to stay properly hydrated.

The Effects of Hydration and Dehydration on Skin

In general, maintaining good levels of hydration improves your skin overall. Studies have found that drinking enough water has a positive impact on your quality of life and will improve your skin’s physiology. In many respects, this is not surprising given your skin is about 64 percent water. What about the specifics though?

When you are dehydrated, your skin can become dry. You can also take on a flushed appearance. So, dehydration can make you look older than you are. You can mitigate some of these problems with a good skin care routine that includes moisturizing and exfoliating. You’ll get the best possible results, however, when your underlying skin is healthy and hydrated. Drinking water regularly achieves this.

In addition, when you’re hydrated, your skin will retain more moisture. Moist skin looks younger. And it will be more elastic and supple, which also makes your skin look firmer and more toned. Supple and elastic skin also reduces the appearance of wrinkles because the plumpness smoothes the lined surface.

Staying hydrated also helps your skin to flush out impurities. Water improves healthy blood flow, particularly to the skin on your face. This helps your skin keep clearer and more vibrant looking.

On a more clinical level, proper hydration makes it less likely you’ll develop dermatitis or that your skin will be prone to infections.

The Benefits of Hydration for Your Skin

In addition, staying hydrated slows the aging process in your body. This is because your cells and organs must work harder than they should when you’re dehydrated, causing them to age faster. Staying hydrated ensures that your cells and organs operate at a healthy level, which slows the aging process.

General Health Benefits of Hydration

Here are the other main advantages of maintaining good levels of hydration:

• Weight loss – Drinking water before you eat a meal helps you to eat less while still feeling satisfied. In addition, what you drink is important. The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water, which can, in turn, help with weight loss, particularly if regularly drinking water helps you to avoid sugary drinks like soda.

• Improves your metabolism – This is another way that staying hydrated can help you lose weight and stay young looking. It particularly applies when you drink ice cold water as your body has to work a little bit harder than normal to process it. This uses more calories.

• Makes your hair look better – Drinking water also helps improve your hair, making it look glossier as well as reducing frizz and making your hair easier to manage. This also helps you to look younger.

• Better muscle performance – When you are hydrated, it is easier for your body to get oxygen to your muscles. This is important to keep you feeling energized at all times, but it is particularly important when you exercise. As exercise is an important ingredient to youthfulness, this is another way that hydration helps keep you looking young.

• Improves your mood – Maintaining good levels of hydration helps balance your mood and makes you generally feel better. This is important for your mental health, but it also has an impact on how young you look. After all, feelings of positivity and happiness will translate to your appearance.

• Better memory and cognitive function – It has already been mentioned that your body is better at transporting oxygen to your muscles when you are hydrated. Your body is also better at getting oxygen to your brain too. As a result, staying hydrated improves memory and cognitive function.

• Keeps joints lubricated – Hydration helps to keep your joints in good working condition. This keeps you fit and healthy, which lets you exercise and live a more fulfilling life.

• Helps removes waste – Your digestive system works more efficiently when you are hydrated. This helps remove waste from your body quickly and effectively as well as ensuring your body can extract all the nutrients it needs from what you eat. As what you eat is important to your appearance, staying hydrated helps you look young and healthy.

• Enhances your immune system – Staying hydrated will help to prevent you from becoming ill. This includes everything from fatigue and headaches to more serious conditions.

• Reduces blood pressure – The body’s ability to transport oxygen to your muscles and brain has already been mentioned. It transports oxygen in your blood, so staying hydrated also helps you maintain a healthy blood pressure.

• Reduces stress – Staying hydrated will help you feel calm and in control. Of course, this is another way that water helps you stay young as stress makes you age more rapidly.

Signs of Dehydration

In the sections above, we’ve already mentioned that dry skin is a sign of dehydration. There are many other signs though, including the following:

• Feeling thirsty
• Having a dry mouth
• Being tired or fatigued
• Not urinating as often as you normally do
• Having urine that is yellow in color
• Having a headache
• Feeling dizzy
• Having a lack of tears
• Having bad breath
• Developing muscle cramps

If you are severely dehydrated, you will have dramatically reduced urine output, and you are likely to feel very dizzy. Your blood pressure may also drop, you may get a fever, and your heart might start beating faster. Skin elasticity is another symptom of severe dehydration; when you pinch the skin, it should quickly return to its normal position. The longer it takes, the more dehydrated you are.

What Is Proper Hydration?

We’ve all heard the advice that you should drink eight glasses of water per day. This is completely inaccurate however. It is inaccurate because there is no fixed rate that applies to everyone. Of course, eight glasses might be the right amount for some people, but it is not a hard and fast rule.

This is because the amount of water you should drink every day to stay properly hydrated depends on a range of different factors:

• Body size – Your weight and height affect the amount of water you need to drink.
• Climate – You will need to drink more in hotter climates as you are likely to sweat more.
• Physical activity – You are likely to need more water if you are physically active.
• General state of health – The amount of water you need to drink also depends on how fit and healthy you are.
• Illness – You will usually need to drink more water each day when you are sick.
• Pregnancy – Being pregnant impacts the amount of water you need to drink.
• Breastfeeding – You are likely going to have to drink more when breastfeeding.

So what is the right figure for you? According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the starting point for working out how much you need to drink is the following:

• 3.7 liters a day for men. This is around 15 cups.
• 2.7 liters a day for women. This is around 11 cups.

The number of cups will vary, however, as cup sizes vary.

In addition, you will need to drink more than the above guidelines if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or sick. You will also need to drink more when exercising or if you live in a hot climate. You may also need to drink more if you live at a high altitude.

Children, however, will need to drink less than the above amounts, although the exact amount depends on their age.

How to Stay Hydrated

Without question, the best drink for hydration and to keep your skin looking young is water. Other drinks will help with your hydration, but most are not as hydrating as water, and many contain calories. Water is the best option.

Other tips for staying hydrated include the following:

• Drink when you first wake up. • Drink about 30 minutes before every meal, including breakfast.
• Keep water with you in a reusable bottle throughout the day to make drinking water a habit.
• Infuse your water with slices of fruit to make it more interesting.
• Get an app on your phone to remind you to drink more water.

Taking these steps will benefit your overall health as well as make you look and feel younger.

Modern Life is Tough On Your Skin.

It has to deal with the impact of weather in addition to pollution and the fast-paced lifestyles that most of us lead. It also has to deal with modern technologies designed to alter the air – heating systems, air conditioning, air recycling systems in planes, and more. It is not a surprise, therefore, that skin struggles to remain healthy looking and young.

This is the one of the challenges that Dr Thiago Freire is passionate about solving, and it has led to the development of EMK 24K Gold Peeling Gel, a breakthrough exfoliating and clarifying treatment for your skin.

Crucially, 24K Gold Peeling Gel creates an at-home peeling effect without any harsh chemicals. Natural antioxidants and vitamins help to rejuvenate your skin and make it look smoother, more glowing, and more radiant. The most important ingredients in 24K Gold Peeling Gel, however, are BIOPLACENTA® from the Cactus Agave plant, 24K gold, and botanical bearberry.

The Journey

Dr Freire brought these ingredients together through extensive research in all corners of the world. He explored the methods different cultures use to help slow the signs of aging while also making the skin healthier and more radiant. He investigated a range of ingredients and treatments to determine which were the best, and which would be the most effective.

He also used his in-depth experience helping women, including celebrities; achieve younger looking and beautiful skin. The objective was to create a product that did not just offer a superficial, cosmetic fix but that actually penetrated deep into the skin to result in visible, long term benefits.

The mix of ingredients in today’s 24K Gold Peeling Gel are the result of Dr Freire’s extensive research and over a year of intensive and exhaustive testing and conducting trials. He wanted to make sure that any product that his name, and the name of EMK skin care, was associated with was a very high quality product that was effective and one that customers could trust.

Key Ingredients

As with any groundbreaking beauty product, there are crucial and innovative active ingredients in 24K Gold Peeling Gel that bring their own health benefits while also enhancing the effect of the other ingredients. The unique combination in 24K Gold Peeling Gel includes:

Extracts from the placenta of the Agave Cactus – EMK BIOPLACENTA®, an ingredient which is bio-identical human placenta and which smoothes skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles

New GOLDLAMINA 24K Gold flakes – an advancement in the gold treatments women have used for years to revive the look of their skin.

Let’s look at each of these active ingredients in more detail, exploring how they help the skin and the benefits you can expect to achieve.

Placenta of the Cactus Agave

Plant placentas are found in young plants, typically under the pistil. They provide nourishment to the plant as it grows and they contain protein, amino acids, and antioxidants. This makes them an ideal ingredient in beauty products as well as health supplements.

Extracts from plant placentas are studied and shown to be beneficial to the skin. This includes supporting skin’s natural healthy circulation and it’s own collagen structure. This is important as collagen makes skin look smoother and suppler. The level of collagen our bodies produce, however, starts to decline from about the age of 20 and continues to decline as we get older. It is important to support collagen by nourishing your skin.

In addition, plant placentas help brighten the look of skin tone because they contain the powerful antioxidant, glutathione.

The specific plant placenta, EMK BIOPLACENTA®, used in 24K Gold Peeling Gel comes from the Agave Cactus. It is a plant found in southwestern areas of the US as well as in Mexico. One of its key characteristics is that it can survive in dry weather conditions. This is because it is able to retain a large amount of moisture for long periods of time.

Agave Cactus BIOPLACENTA® is used in 24K Gold Peeling Gel because it is bio-identical to the human placenta. This is beneficial in a number of ways including that it penetrates deeply into the skin.

What Does EMK BIOPLACENTA® Plant Placenta Do for Your Skin?

Smoothes skin tone so that lines and wrinkles appear less

Helps to reduce visibility of age spots

Refreshes skin and improves the look of youthful radiance

Refines skin texture to make large pores look minimal

Moisturizes dry skin and makes it look firmer and more toned

Reduces the appearance of stretch marks

Makes skin blemishes seem less noticeable

Gold as an Ingredient in Beauty Treatments and Medicine

There is a long history of people using gold as a beauty treatment and as an ingredient in medicine. Geishas in Japan, for example, are known to have used gold to give their skin a more glowing and vibrant appearance. Cleopatra, the ancient Egyptian ruler, is also thought to have used a gold mask to make her skin look younger and more beautiful. In fact, the Egyptians are known to have used gold to treat a range of medical conditions in the body and the mind. This includes skin conditions as well as beauty treatments to make skin more radiant and younger looking.

Gold has also been used in Eastern medicine to treat a number of conditions including conditions like depression and arthritis. Gold was also used in ancient Chinese medicine to make the skin appear younger looking.

There is also a history in some cultures of adding gold leaf to food on special occasions. This was done to demonstrate wealth and was typically reserved for only the most important dining guests.

In addition, scientific research has also found that gold helps with a number of health conditions, including troubling skin conditions.

Benefits of Gold to Your Skin

Gold helps your skin in a number of ways. This includes supporting your skin’s natural collagen structure, which makes your skin look smoother and more resilient.

Gold has antioxidant properties too, so can help prevent the creation of free radicals that lead to age signs. In addition, gold helps reduce the visibility of discolorations that make skin look dull and aged.

These properties of gold offer a number of benefits:

Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles

Enhances skin’s look of firmness and elasticity

Helpful for breakouts due to deep pore purification through exfoliation

The Gold Used in the 24K Gold Peeling Gel

Of course, you can’t simply add bits of gold to a beauty product and hope that it has a positive effect. The process is scientific and exact so requires extensive research and precision. Extensive trials were conducted to get the right composition and quantity of gold used in 24K Gold Peeling Gel. That is the new GOLDLAMINA.

What is Bearberry?

In summary, the extracts from bearberry in 24K Gold Peeling Gel work to make the skin appear brighter and more glowing. What is bearberry, though?

The bearberry is a dwarf shrub that is found in the northern part of North America as well as in parts of Asia, Europe, and Central America. It gets its name because of its popularity with bears – it is one of their favourite foods. The fruit produced by the bearberry plant is also known as bearberry.

Bearberries have been used to treat a number of medical conditions for centuries. One of the reasons bearberries are effective is because they contain natural hydroquines. These are antibacterial agents that help to protect the body, including your skin.

Bearberries also contain antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect your skin against the damage that free radicals cause as well as damage caused by UV exposure.

As an anti-aging MD, I know that some of the general health benefits that have been attributed to bearberries include detoxifying the body, reducing headaches, helping problems associated with pregnancy, speeding up the recovery process, and protecting the stomach. I always say, speak with your physician before trying any supplements.

Bearberries also offer considerable benefits for your skin. They contain natural hydroquines, which are brightening, as well as arbutin, a substance that contains the enzyme tyrosinase that is found to help combat skin pigmentation problems, including age spots or sun spots.

In addition, bearberry contains natural allantoin, which is soothing to skin.

Skin Benefits of Bearberry

Helps skin appear brighter and lighter looking

Fades the look of age spots and freckles

Soothing on the skin

Helps to refresh the skin and restore clarity

It does not irritate the skin

It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin

How 24K Gold Peeling Gel Works

The gel is easy to apply – you simply massage it into the skin for about a minute after cleansing. You then need to thoroughly rinse your face before drying it and then applying moisturizer.

When applying the gel, you don’t have to put pressure on your skin or perform any sort of scrubbing action. This is because the gold flakes do all the work. They perform the peeling action in a very gentle way but also in a way that penetrates deep into the skin – deeper than normal scrubs or cleansers.

Once the dead skin cells and pollutants are removed, the anti-aging ingredients in 24K Gold Peeling Gel start to work.

The gel can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin, and it doesn’t cause irritation. The effects can be seen after just one application.

Reducing the Signs of Aging

Of course, you can’t simply use 24K Gold Peeling Gel and do nothing else while expecting your skin to transform into something younger and more beautiful. The gel will have a positive effect regardless of the condition of your skin, but to maximize the benefit you should look after your overall health and the health of your skin. After all, wrinkles and other skin issues are caused by a number of different factors including diet and your beauty and skin cleansing routine.

You should, therefore, take a holistic approach when it comes to making your skin look more beautiful, healthy, and young. This includes protecting it when in the sun, giving up smoking, eating a balanced diet that includes foods known to help the skin, cleansing the skin regularly, moisturising, and using 24K Gold Peeling Gel.

If you adopt this approach you will see immediate and long-lasting effects. The gel is a crucial element – think of it as your secret weapon in the fight against the signs of aging.

That fight is an ongoing process, but every application of EMK 24K Gold Peeling Gel helps to give your skin new life.

]]>https://dr-thiago.com/2017/08/28/its-here-emk-24k-gold-peeling-gel/feed/030 Anti-Aging Mistakes Most People Makehttps://dr-thiago.com/2017/08/05/30-anti-aging-mistakes-most-people-make/
https://dr-thiago.com/2017/08/05/30-anti-aging-mistakes-most-people-make/#respondSat, 05 Aug 2017 00:05:17 +0000http://dr-thiago.com/?p=472Continued]]>There are lots of things you can do to reduce the signs of aging, but there are also things you shouldn’t do. Here are the 30 anti-aging mistakes that most people make. And forgive me if I sound like a mother hen. Think of me as your M.D. friend.

1. Not Wearing Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of the best defenses you have against aging. In fact, there’s no substitute for wearing sunscreen and no remedy to correct problems if you don’t. If you want to have younger looking skin now and in the future, you must wear sunscreen. We know that damage from UV rays is cumulative, so everyday you go without protection, damage is adding up to create older skin. Also, UV damage is not totally reversible. Skin treatments can do a lot to erase the visible signs, but damage is done at deep levels.

2. Relying on Sunscreen 100 Percent

Sunscreen is important, but it doesn’t offer 100 percent protection. This is particularly the case on very hot days or at those times of the day when the sun is at its hottest. During these times, you should cover up with a hat, clothing, and/or get into the shade.

3. Forgetting About Sun Exposure When in Your Car

Even if you follow the above two tips, the sun still poses dangers when you’re in your car. Covering up when in your car and getting darker tints on your windows can help. Getting a nice pair of driving gloves will keep hands from getting those telltale dark sun spots.

4. Not Wearing Sunglasses

If you don’t wear sunglasses in the sun, you’ll have to squint, which can lead to wrinkles. In addition, sunglasses offer a certain amount of UV protection for the skin around your eyes and can protect your eyes as well.

5. Washing Your Face Too Frequently

Using top-quality skin care products will keep your face clean, clear, and beautiful, but it’s possible to wash too much. Twice a day is the limit for most women. If you wash more than this, you’ll remove too much moisture, making your skin look older.

6. Being Too Stressed

Leading a high-stress lifestyle is bad for your health and your skin. As a result, you not only look older, but you feel older too. It is, therefore, important you try to reduce stress as much as possible. There are lots of ways you can do this, including getting enough exercise and sleep. You can also try yoga, meditation, or mindfulness techniques. In addition, stop trying to multitask. It is rarely a good way to get things done, and it almost always causes increased levels of stress.

7. Wearing An Overly Long Hairstyle

Long hair does look youthful, but it’s not always the answer. In fact, long hair that lays too flat, is not in top condition, and doesn’t have a definite style can make your face look drawn, which will make it appear older. On the flip side, you probably want to avoid a cut that looks too mature and isn’t in sync with current fashion. The right option is to get a hairstyle that flatters your face shape and has lift and volume.

8. Using Makeup as a Cover-Up for Wrinkles

Makeup is not a solution for wrinkles. Trying to cover up wrinkles with makeup can actually draw more attention to them. If you have facial wrinkles, the best option is to treat them by using a daily regime of high quality skin care products that lessen their impact. Look for moisturizers with effective ingredients that plump up your skin and enhance collagen.

9. Relying on Products to Cover Up An Unhealthy Lifestyle

There are some excellent anti-aging products on the market and other solutions to make your skin look younger and more vibrant. However, you cannot take a passive approach to anti-aging, continuing to do things you know are not good for you in the hope that an anti-aging product will correct or cover up the problem. Instead, you need to be proactive about following a healthy diet, proper sleep habits, exercise, and stress reducing methods while using products to enhance the anti-aging effect.

10. Believing Everything You Read About Anti-Aging Products

You don’t have to watch TV or browse the Internet for long before you see products promising the moon. Every brand has a story to make you believe. But some homework will save you money, and time. You should always research the claims, read detailed material on the ingredients, and look for genuine testimonials or other forms of validation. It’s also vital to know your skin’s behavior and needs. A product may be a miracle for someone but actually pose a problem for you.

11. Not Eating a Balanced Diet

There’s lots of advice on diet and anti-aging, but the most important thing to remember is you should eat a balanced diet. Following fads or cutting one bad thing while continuing to consume others will not get you the results you want. Instead, you should eat a diet that contains a healthy amount of fiber, fruit, vegetables, vitamins, proteins, and minerals. You can take this a stage further by eating foods known to have anti-aging properties. These include blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and cabbage. One of the things about the foods on that list is that they are all colorful. Colorful meals are a good indicator of a balanced diet. If most of your food is white, brown, or gray, your diet is probably making you old.

12. Using the Same Cleanser You Used When You Were Younger

Many women find great products that work brilliantly on their skin when they are in their 20s. This includes cleansers. The problem with continuing to use the same cleanser when you are in your 30s, 40s, or 50s is that your skin changes. In particular, it likely doesn’t produce as much oil, so some cleansers will be too harsh. Always use a cleanser that’s appropriate for the oil levels of your skin. If your skin looks red and feels dry after cleansing, your cleanser is too strong. Find one that is milder. Don’t count on your moisturizer to fix the stripping that a harsh cleanser does.

13. Not Exercising Enough

Exercising as you get older is not as easy when you were younger, but it’s still important. In fact, it’s arguably more important. Regular exercise increases blood flow, which can help your skin, plus it keeps your muscles tight and prevents your skin from sagging. In addition, exercise boosts your mood and can help lower levels of stress. The exercise you do doesn’t have to be vigorous. If hitting the gym to train with weights or running 10 miles doesn’t interest you, you can try walking, yoga, or swimming. In fact, the most important thing is you enjoy the activity so you’ll continue with it consistently.

14. Not Wearing Sunscreen in the Winter

Sunscreen has already been mentioned in some of the points above, but there’s another sunscreen mistake that some people make – not wearing sunscreen in the winter or on cloudy days. The sun’s UV rays still affect your skin in the winter and on cloudy days, causing wrinkles, discolorations, and reducing your skin’s elasticity. You should, therefore, wear sunscreen all year. Think of it as part of your everyday skin program.

15. Thinking You’re Old

Some people start dwelling on the fact they are aging. This can lead to depression and can result in them giving up on looking their best and living a healthy lifestyle. To look younger and remain healthier for longer, you should enjoy life, embrace getting older, and lead a life that’s as active as possible.

16. Not Applying Sunscreen Correctly

Yep, here’s another point about sunscreen. As many experts agree the sun is the biggest cause of the visible signs of aging, this is understandable. This tip is about the correct application of sunscreen. The first part is ensuring you reapply regularly throughout the day. Normally, this is about once every two hours. In addition, don’t just apply sunscreen to your face as there are other parts of your body that can look aged. You should also apply sunscreen to your neck, ears, décolleté, and lips. Use a special lip product with sunscreen in it. Also, always apply sunscreen last, just prior to any makeup.

17. Continuing to Smoke

Smoking is bad for you in many ways, but it also makes you look older. Smokers don’t sleep as well as non-smokers so are more likely to have bags under their eyes. In addition, smoking stains your teeth and fingers, causes wrinkles, and makes your hair thinner. It creates many deep, visible lines around your lips. In fact, most experts agree that you will look 1.4 times older than a non-smoker if you smoke.

18. Sleeping Without a Pillow

Not everyone likes using pillows when they sleep. In fact, using a pillow can result in aches and pains for some people. That said, not using a pillow can make your eyes look puffy, as the fluid around them doesn’t flow as well. Take time to find a pillow that supports your neck and spine, isn’t too hot, and that feels comfortable. Now there are so many pillow options, everyone can find a good pillow.

19. Eating Too Much Sugar

There’s increasing knowledge of the damage eating too much sugar can do to your body. This includes making you look older. This is because eating sugar triggers a process that can make your skin look dull and puffy and increase the appearance of dark circles under your eyes. Ideally, you should cut the number of sugary products you eat as much as possible.

20. Ignoring Your Hands, Neck and Décolleté

These areas are exposed to the elements as much as your face. If you don’t look after them, they can make you look older, giving the game away. Be sure the neck and décolleté is part of your skin cleansing, moisturizing, and protection program. Using sunscreen on these areas will help keep the skin firmer looking, brighter, and free of those telltale brown spots.

21. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Your body needs time to recuperate and regenerate overnight. This applies to your skin as much as it does to other parts of your body. For example, your skin produces collagen when you sleep, and your cells renew. Therefore, if you don’t get enough sleep, you will look older. You will also feel more tired and stressed, which can lead to other health problems that can also impact the way you look. So make sure you get enough sleep. And have an effective sleep routine that helps to relax you before you go to bed so that you fall asleep quicker.

22. Washing Your Face with Very Hot Water

Hot or steaming water will dry out your skin, particularly as you get older. It is much better if you cleanse each day using lukewarm water.

23. Rubbing Your Eyes When Tired

This feels nice and can be comforting, but rubbing your eyes like this is not good for your skin. This is because the skin in this area is very delicate and can be damaged by intensive rubbing.

24. Ignoring Your Vitamin Intake

Vitamins are important to your overall health and to your skin. Getting enough vitamins is essential to keep you looking young and healthy. So long as you are healthy, you will get most of the vitamins that you need if you eat a balanced diet that includes fruit and vegetables. However, you can top up your diet by taking vitamin supplements to ensure you get the right amount every day.

25. Using Skin Products That Do Not Suit Your Skin

This is common, particularly if a friend raves about a product that gives them great results. If you and your friend have different skin, however, the product may not work for you at all. Of course, take advice, but always do your own research to see if the products and ingredients are recommended for the type of skin you have.

26. Not Using Eye Cream

The skin around your eyes is incredibly important when it comes to reducing the signs of aging. So, prioritize this part of your face by using specially designed creams that moisturize, promote collagen production, and tighten the skin. Find the formula that’s good for your skin type. For example, oily skin often does best with a light textured gel formula. Very dry skin needs a richer cream.

27. Not Moisturizing Correctly

The best time to moisturize your skin is straight after cleansing. The heat and moisture leaves skin more open and receptive to product absorption. Cleanse, tone your skin to restore its natural pH balance, and then moisturize. If you wait until later, your moisturizer- and other anti-aging treatments-will not be fully effective.

28. Not Exfoliating Often Enough

However old you are, cells on your skin’s surface die, making your skin look dull and lacking in vitality. Exfoliating removes these dead skin cells to get to the healthier, younger looking, and more vibrant skin underneath. Exfoliating two to three times a week is right for most people. In addition, you should use products that exfoliate gently so you get the best results. An example is EMK’s 24K Gold Peeling Gel, which provides an excellent alternative to much harsher chemical treatments.

29. Sleeping on Your Side

When you sleep on your side, the creases in the pillow can create wrinkles on your skin. As you get older, your skin doesn’t have the same elasticity so it won’t smooth out as well once you wake up. Often, these wrinkles can become permanent. If you must sleep on your side to get a good night’s sleep, you should use satin pillow cases as they’re less likely to crease and cause marks on your skin.

30. Not Embracing the Fact You Are Getting Older

This point has already been touched on, but it is worth expanding on it. This is because, sometimes, you can look older than you are (or older than you want to look) because you don’t embrace your age. Instead, you try to look young, but in the process, achieve the opposite. Examples of specific mistakes that people make are wearing clothing that’s too trendy or youthful, using makeup designed for younger people, and being stuck in old makeup application habits that no longer work. Of course, you should take steps to make your appearance as youthful, vibrant, and healthy as possible, but embrace each new season of your life. Explore new makeup techniques, hair color, and clothing that express who you are now. Maybe give up those high heels for cute shoes that are comfortable.

By avoiding these 30 mistakes, you’ll start to look and feel younger and healthier. You will also age more slowly physiologically. After all, research has shown that those who look young age at a slower rate than those who look old.

Good skin care is not only for looking vibrant and young on the outside, but also for keeping you young on the inside.

Aging is not so much a matter of counting birthdays as of changes in fitness, in the way your body works and reacts. If your body changes enough that you look, feel, and function differently than when you were younger, age may be overtaking you.

What is early aging?

Early aging is when you look and feel older than you are. Yes, it’s about physical appearance, but it’s also about self-confidence and physical ability. A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that people who look old physiologically age quicker than people of the same biological age but who look young. That’s why a good skin care line is vital not only for looking young outside, but also for keeping younger on the inside! Everything is connected and proven!

Chronological age and biological age are not the same. Aging is a physiological process that at times is only remotely connected to how old you are!

Without the diseases of premature aging, normal human life expectancy is estimated to be 120 years.

Unfortunately, conventional medical care has focused more on symptom relief with pain medications and surgical procedures and less on reversing the accelerated aging process, which is potentially more effective over the long term. If premature aging can be halted and normal function reestablished, then people not only will live longer but also will have a higher quality of life with the elimination of pain.

Why does premature aging happen?

There are several reasons: too much unprotected exposure to the sun, not practicing a good skin care routine, smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, being under stress, not getting enough sleep, drinking too much, no physical activity and depression.

Various factors cause the body to deteriorate, including injuries that do not heal completely, allergies, toxic chemicals and heavy metals, poor nutrition, excessive radiation sunlight, overwhelming stress, and inactivity.

How can people know they are aging earlier than the normal?

They look tired, they have wrinkles and uneven skin tone and texture. Constant chronic fatigue is also a sign.

Our outward appearance says a lot about what is going on inside our body. If a person appears to be aging prematurely then it is probably not just occurring on the outside.

Frequently, however, a body that is aging prematurely sends a message to its owner that it is malfunctioning. The most common message is pain. The cause of the pain might include such factors as inflammation, joint instability, insufficient blood supply, or pressure within an organ or on surrounding tissues.

Of course, the earliest and most obvious signs include men losing their hair at a young age and men and women needing reading glasses because of presbyopia (inability to focus on near objects).

If your typical meal is dominated by food that is white, brown and gray then what you are eating is probably making you old. Instead, think “color and crunch.” Eat meals that are dominated by juicy, crunchy foods rich in reds, oranges, purples, and greens.

Therapeutic Fasting is the modern scientific proven approach I see in every anti-aging congress I attend! This is a common truth taught worldwide in different anti aging schools and one of the most exposed topics in modern anti-aging research.

According to research at the University of Southern California published in June, 2014, prolonged fasting reduces levels of the enzyme PKA, which is linked to aging.

Since 2014, there have been thousands of published research studies about caloric restriction. The results are impressive!

To do list to prevent early aging besides food?

Always wear sunscreen.

Always wear sunglasses when in the sun. This will stop you squinting as squinting leads to wrinkles around your eyes.

Start practicing a good skin care routine at an early age including daily cleansing and moisturizing as well as regular exfoliating.

Stop smoking and drink less alcohol.

Take measures to lower levels of stress by, for example, taking up a new hobby.

Go to bed earlier so you can get more sleep. Your aim should be to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night and also to have a regular sleep schedule and routine.

What are the factors that make early aging happen?

Some factors have a bigger impact on aging than others. Smoking is one of the main causes of early aging. If you don’t smoke the next most important is protecting your skin from the sun. This includes covering up when the sun is at its strongest and always wearing sunscreen, including when it is cloudy. Also, sunscreen helps to protect your skin from general pollutants in the environment. Remember as well that some indoor lights emit harmful UV rays too.

Stress also affects how old you look – for example, stress can cause inflammation. Daily meditation and deep breathing exercises can help to lower your stress levels. Both Eastern and Western medicine recognize that stress can affect the adrenal glands and accelerate aging process.

Hygiene is very important. An easy to do and very important step is to take care of your teeth, hair, skin, and body daily. A good skin regimen will make an amazing difference in age prevention.

Why has early aging become such a “big” thing?

Everyone wants to look as young and vibrant as possible. In addition, there is a higher expectation among people now as there have been significant developments in the health and beauty industries. These developments have made it possible for people to stay young looking for younger.

Your ideas for treatment and prevention?

I believe that patients should not blindly accept professional advice that they are “just getting older” or that they “will just have to learn to live with it” or that there is “nothing more we can do”. Anti-aging therapy and complementary medicine offers innovative approaches now, that will likely become common practice this century.

A health restoration program could include many modern laboratory assessments such as testing for antioxidant status, digestive analysis, immune system function, hormone status, circulation, and other aging markers. Then a comprehensive treatment program can be established that emphasizes nutritional therapies, digestive cofactors, enzyme enhancement, hormone balancing, and lifestyle changes.

Disease has a greater impact on how your body functions than does aging alone. Therefore, staying fit and healthy is an important part of keeping your body operating as if it were still young.

Massage can reduce the chronic stress on the body that interferes with normal functioning and contributes to premature aging. And paying attention to external youthfulness, as research has proven that looking young outside directly impacts how you age inside!

My top advice for looking young outside?

Plant Placental skin care!

Yes! Tests show that Plant Placenta enhances skin’s oxygenation and protein synthesis. (link to tech page) Cells use oxygen to synthesize more protein, which is super important for good functioning and structure of the skin!

If you add plant placenta to gentle daily exfoliation treatment and keep removing daily dead cells, you’ll see exceptional results that will make your skin look younger and more radiant.

I created a new product with EMK Bioplacenta® and 24K gold to exfoliate and restore bright, radiant, young looking skin. You’ll want this for your regular skin routine, I promise!

Since the 1930s, researchers have consistently found that laboratory rats and mice live longer when placed on calorie restricted diets. In fact, they live up to 40 percent longer than rats and mice usual usually do when they consume a normal amount of calories. The rats and mice on a calorie restricted diet also appear to be more resistant to age-related diseases.

There are two main problems when translating this to humans. Firstly, just because a permanent calorie restricted diet works in laboratory rats and mice does not mean it will have the same positive impact in humans. In fact, it might even cause health problems.

The other problem is the level of calorie restriction that is required – 30 percent less than normal. That means a life of permanent hunger and, really, who wants to live like that.

Intermittent fasting is a promising solution. It delivers similar health benefits to full-on calorie restricted diets but without the complications of a life-long state of hunger.

How Does Intermittent Fasting Work?

A study by a team at the University of Southern California. found that periodically almost-fasting can slow aging and reduce your risk of suffering from diseases that are age-related. It is “almost-fasting” because you don’t go without food completely. Instead, you do five days on a severely calorie restricted diet – 50 percent less than normal on day one and 70 percent less on the other four days. For the rest of the month you eat what you want.

The health benefits are shown to include:

Improved glucose levels

Improved cholesterol levels

Lower BMI (Body Mass Index)

Research experts say this approach works because the anti-aging effects of the diet kick in during the recovery period, not when you’re eating less than normal numbers of calories.

Other Research

There is wide body of other research available that shows that fasting can have health benefits, including slowing the impact of aging. For example, fasting has been shown to help non-cancerous cells when cancer patients go through chemotherapy and it may help prevent chronic diseases.

Fasting and Losing Weight

One of the benefits of fasting is that you can lose weight. Why does this work, however? It has to do with what’s known as the fasted state.

When you eat, your body goes through a number of different states. This starts with the fed state where your insulin levels are high, moves to the post-absorptive state, and finally to the fasted state.

In the fasted state, your insulin levels are at their lowest. When your insulin levels are low, your body will burn more fat. This applies even if you don’t exercise any more than normal. In fact, you can still eat the same amount of food providing you can do so while getting your body into the fasted state.

The fasted state occurs about 12 hours after you eat.

How to Get Started With Intermittent Fasting

The method of intermittent fasting in the University of Southern California study mentioned above (where you eat a drastically calorie reduced diet for five days a month) is just one of the fasting methods.

Some are harder than others but the main considerations are how they fit into your daily routine and whether you will be comfortable. The latter is why so many people are taking notice of the previously mentioned study, i.e. you only have to go through five days of fasting a month before eating as normal again, making it easier to do.

Your family and work situation will also have an impact on which is the best approach, but there are a number of options to choose from.

Daily Intermittent Fasting Method

This method of fasting involves eating and fasting within the same 24 hour period. Like the scientific study mentioned earlier, the objective is to mimic the impact of fasting on the body, i.e. to get the body into the fasted state.

You achieve this by eating just two meals a day. For example, you eat at 1pm and then again at 8pm. After your 8pm meal, you don’t eat anything again until 1pm the next day. That’s 16 hours of fasting.

One of the things many people find attractive about this method is that you can eat the same amount and type of food that you do normally. The only difference is you only do it twice a day, plus you leave a considerable gap between your last meal one day and your first meal the next. As you can eat the same amount of food each day, this method of fasting is not a diet. Instead, it is way of scheduling your meals to achieve the body’s fasted state.

Weekly Intermittent Fasting Method

Another option if you don’t like the daily method is fasting for a slightly longer period of time (24 hours instead of 16), but you only do this once a week. The obvious benefit is you will get a respite from fasting compared to the previous option of daily intermittent fasting. In fact, this option is similar to the approach taken in the scientific study just on a slightly different schedule – instead of fasting five days a month, you fast one day a week.

The Warrior Diet Fasting Method

This approach to fasting aims to mimic the diets our warrior ancestors are likely to have eaten – one large meal in the evening and then no further meals until the large meal again the following evening.

ces. This makIt is a long time to go without food on a daily basis, but the creators of the diet say you can eat small amounts of protein, raw vegetables, and raw fruit during the fasting period each day. You can also drink fruit juices this option much more manageable for many people.

The Alternate Day Diet Method

This approach to fasting involves eating every day but on every other day you eat very little – about 20 percent of your normal calorie intake. The next day you eat as normal again before eating the calorie restrict diet again the following day.

So, as you can see, there are many options available to explore the benefits of fasting for a healthier, longer life. The most important thing is to discuss any health, diet, or lifestyle changes with your physician before initiating them.

]]>https://dr-thiago.com/2017/05/29/how-to-age-slower-fast/feed/0The Essential Guide to Exfoliationhttps://dr-thiago.com/2017/05/05/the-essential-guide-to-exfoliation/
https://dr-thiago.com/2017/05/05/the-essential-guide-to-exfoliation/#respondFri, 05 May 2017 21:28:05 +0000http://dr-thiago.com/?p=370Continued]]>People – particularly women – have exfoliated their skin for thousands of years. In fact, most experts believe exfoliating goes back to Ancient Egyptian times. It was practiced for similar reasons it is today, i.e. it’s one of the most important things you can do to get healthy, glowing, and beautiful looking skin.

Some people concentrate their exfoliation efforts on their face but skin experts recommend you do your whole body so your skin looks great all over. This is particularly important in warmer months when you wear less clothing, or when wearing swimwear.

You can exfoliate your skin in multiple ways, plus there are benefits to your body that extend beyond the appearance of your skin. We’ll explore these things and more in this article.

What is Exfoliation?

Your skin continuously creates new cells. This renewal process takes place in the lower layers of your skin with the formation of new skin cells. This new skin then gradually rises to the top as old skin cells on the surface die.

It can, however, take some time for skin cells to fall off after they die. Dead skin cells that remain on the surface make your skin look dull and lifeless even though the new skin underneath is vibrant and fresh. Exfoliation brings this fresh new skin to the top making your skin look more radiant and healthy. It involves taking steps to remove dead and old skin cells from the surface of the skin, leaving just the new skin.

It’s a beauty process that can benefit people of all ages, but it becomes increasingly important as you age. This is because the cell turnover process slows as you get older. In other words, it takes even longer for new skin cells to be born and for dead cells to fall away. This is not uniform, however, so you can have patches of skin that renew faster than others. This results in dry, dull, uneven looking skin that has a rough texture. Exfoliation helps to counteract this.

Benefits of Regular Exfoliation

Here are the reasons why exfoliation should be part of your regularly beauty routine:

Removes dead skin – exfoliating removes dull looking skin from the surface to reveal new and more radiant looking skin below. This gives you a healthier and rejuvenated appearance. It also helps to make your skin look younger. As a result, exfoliation is an essential part of all successful anti-aging routines.

Improves results from skin care treatments – exfoliation also helps make your skin more receptive to all your skin treatments, including moisturizers and serums. These treatments penetrate deeper into the skin after you have exfoliated, multiplying the benefits and making your skin healthier, younger looking, and more beautiful.

Helps skin all over your body – most skin and beauty experts recommend regular head to toe exfoliation to keep your skin looking as young, bright, and healthy as possible. Just make sure you don’t use products on your face that were designed for use on your body.

You will have smoother and softer skin – exfoliating also makes your skin much smoother and softer to the touch. It removes rough patches and makes skin silky.

Your skin will be cleaner – exfoliation helps to clean embedded dirt and oils from your pores to leave you with cleaner skin that is beneficial for oxygenation.

Combats blemishes – blemishes and acne occur when your pores get blocked. By regularly exfoliating dead skin layers, pores remain clearer. In fact, studies dating back to the 80’s show the benefits of exfoliation on skin conditions like acne.

Fewer pimples and blackheads – the process of exfoliation also helps to clarify pimples and blackheads as well as helping to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This is one of the reasons you’ll have smoother skin when you exfoliate.

Improved blood circulation – exfoliation improves blood circulation which brings a number of health benefits to your body. For your skin specifically, improved blood circulation improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of scars. It also promotes a healthier pace of skin cell renewal for more youthful looking skin.

3 Methods of Exfoliation

There are three main methods of exfoliation:

Mechanical – using an abrasive material or substance to scrub the skin. These range from a simple wash cloth, to more abrasive sponges, and skin appliances including cleansing brushes and spatulas. Facial scrub formulas often contain particles that slightly abrade the skin to lift away top skin layers. Facial scrubs and body scrubs are typically different as the skin on your face is more sensitive than other parts of your body. It, therefore, needs a less abrasive and more gentle scrub.

Chemical – using skin care creams and serums that have exfoliating properties. Most skin regimens contain such products that work to renew skin with citric acid (Vitamin C), salicylic acid, fruit enzymes, glycolic acid, malic acid, and Retinol (Vitamin A). They work by loosening the cells continually so they can be simply cleansed away.

Hair removal – some methods of hair removal, such as waxing, threading, and shaving, also exfoliate the skin.

Eliminating Skin Redness

Exfoliating is a very safe process that rarely has side effects. That said, some people do complain of skin redness as a result of exfoliating. There are several reasons for this – understanding them can help you avoid skin redness in the future.

The most common reason for skin redness due to exfoliating is over exfoliating. You can even do this without knowing. This is because you may be combining mechanical exfoliation with chemical exfoliation; e.g. using an exfoliating scrub frequently along with skin care that has Retinol or glycolic acid in it. Each skin type needs a different level and frequency of exfoliation. It’s important to know how sensitive your skin is and adjust your exfoliation schedule accordingly. For instance, very oily and tougher skin types may be able to use a salicylic cream and also exfoliate with a scrub daily. Sensitive skin may be able to use a scrub only once a week. Experiment with your regimen until you achieve the best results without aggravating your skin.

So, one of the best ways to eliminate redness is to avoid over exfoliating.

There are some other causes of redness. This includes diet (eating too much spicy food) or exposing your skin to the sun immediately after exfoliating. No matter what your skin regimen, always use a sunscreen that has both UVA and UVB radiation protection. (EMK Guard Sunscreen is one I like because it makes skin photograph beautifully). You may also have very sensitive or reactive skin so should consider an exfoliation method that is less abrasive or intensive.

If you do experience redness after exfoliation, there are creams and serums with ingredients that calm skin. Two of the best are Supra Face Cream and Rescue Serum, both from EMK.

Rescue Serum

Supra Face Cream

Exfoliating Tips

Firstly, make sure you take off your makeup and cleanse your skin before exfoliating. Another thing you can do is exfoliate in the morning. This gives the best results as your skin renews itself at night when you sleep, leaving more dead cells on your skin’s surface in the morning. When these layers are removed, skin treatments penetrate deeply and makeup applies more beautifully onto new, clear, smooth skin.

24K Gold Peeling Gel

Finally, you should try my soon to come skin treatment, EMK 24K Gold Peeling Gel. It’s a non-chemical exfoliant that improves your skin in so many ways, including keeping it moisturized, firmed, and super toned. I’m recommending it to everyone because it’s so gentle and effective!

While many of my travels take me to tropical destinations and sun-drenched beaches, there is something undeniably beautiful about Europe. On my most recent trip, I chose to lose myself in the Alps, and feast my eyes on some of the most breathtaking peaks in the world. I first landed in a small town named Pré-Saint-Didier in the Aosta Valley, a legendary destination for resort tourists who want to relax and enjoy the thermal water spas. I stayed in the Hotel QCTerme Monte Bianco, which meant that the hot springs were basically right down the hall.

Not wanting to insult the locals, I was happy to follow custom and soak myself in those healing waters. Calling the experience luxurious doesn’t do it justice. Beneath the shadow of Mont Blanc, the thermal springs draw thousands of visitors each year as the natural hot water from the mountain flows in at a toasty 37 degrees C (99 degrees F). People flock to the spas for their healing qualities, able to aid those with arthritis, skin conditions, circulation issues, and even muscular disorders. The waters are rich in iron and other minerals, and while I didn’t suffer from any particular ailments, it was one of the most soothing and revitalizing experiences I’ve had in a long time.

Soaking in the waters of Mont Blanc Mountain was one thing, but my trip would not be complete without a stellar view of the White Lady, as the peak is affectionately known. For those who don’t know, Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps, and the tallest peak in Europe outside of the Caucasus Mountains in Russia. At just under 16,000 feet, it soars into the sky, dwarfing its neighbors, and earning its place as the 11th highest summit in the world.

I took the short trip to La Salle, a small village at the base of the mountain, and dropped my bags in my room at the Montblanc Village Hotel, which boasted one of the finest views of the mountain. It was simply stunning, and for the remainder of the trip, waking up with that beautiful mountain in view made the trip truly unforgettable. La Salle village itself was quaint and quiet, and I spent quite a bit of time flying my drone around, capturing the simple village life from above. I had never flown it in the snow before, despite having taken it all over the world, and I was blown away by the shots I managed to get. It’s one of the best drone videos I’ve taken yet!

I have always had a difficult relationship with skiing –something about both of my legs always wanting to move in opposite directions – but every time I find myself near the slopes, I can’t help giving it another try. Every year, I find a way to practice a bit more, and (in my opinion) I think I’m actually making progress! My research had pointed me to a deluxe ski resort named Courmayeur, and I willed myself to take another shot. Located on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is attached to another beautiful town of the same name, which is packed with restaurants, bars, and skiers from all over the world. The resort sits more than 1,200 meters up the slope and offers visitors a view of fourteen 4,000+meter peaks – one of the finest spreads of mountains I’ve ever witnessed. Even if you’re not tempted by the skiing, the resort itself is a paradise, with overflowing charm, shops, cafes and plenty of places for an après-ski cocktail. There is nothing quite like the small towns of Europe, particularly those buried deep in the Alps; it is an experience of a universe set apart – an entirely different world from home.

For me, skiing in Courmayeur was impossible to refuse, however, and I spent an afternoon tumbling and laughing in one of the most scenic spots on the planet. I’m not going to be qualifying for the Olympics anytime soon, but I was pleased by how long I managed to stay on my feet! There are plenty of runs for intermediate skiers, as well as higher elevation slopes for advanced skiers, which is another reason why this resort draws so many visitors every season. There is also a new means of getting around between mountains, called the Skyway Monte Bianco, which links Courmayeur to Chamonix. Along the way, I even stopped for a meal at one of the mountainside restaurants, offering another awe-inspiring series of views.

After a long, wonderful day, with both my ego and body a bit bruised, I made my way back into the village to explore the narrow, winding streets and soak up the last bit of its Italian charm. The citizens are an incredible mix of nationalities, ranging from transplants and expats to residents who have lived there for generations. They are as welcoming to tourists and strangers as they are to their neighbors, one of the magical aspects of ski towns in the Alps.

Unfortunately, every adventure must come to an end, and after nearly 2 weeks in this marvelous part of the world, it was time to bid adieu to Mont Blanc. Yet, as I saw that tremendous peak disappear in the rear view mirror, I knew that I would see it again. Life is short, but the road is long.

If you picture a tropical escape, most people imagine white sandy beaches, endless stretches of green, tumbling waterfalls and a spirit of pure relaxation that can make every other worry in the world melt away. If you want to stop imagining and experience that sort of heaven on Earth for yourself, take a trip to Nassau, Bahamas.

On my recent trip to this spectacular Caribbean destination, I was shocked by the level of luxury, pampering and adventure that was available for any traveler who wanted to get away from the world for a while. Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas, and also holds more than 65% of the entire population of the island nation. Despite the cosmopolitan feel in certain areas, it also boasts dozens of incredible resorts, miles of pristine beaches, and water so crystal-clear that you would swear it was a dream.

I had asked a number of my friends about potential hotels to stay at, and I heard nothing but lavish praise for Atlantis, a very well known mega-resort on nearby Paradise Island. Like the legendary city for which it is named, Atlantis is an aquatic masterpiece, with an incredible Aquaventure water park, pools, slides, river rides, and the world’s largest open-air marine habitat. For someone who came to the Bahamas to relax and soak in the sun – like me – there was no better choice on the island. Depending on your mood, you can find tucked away oases, far from the madding crowd of revelers and vacationing families, or you could throw yourself into the mix, plummeting down theMayan Temple’s Leap of Faith, which sends you shooting past sharks and other wildlife in one of the most exhilarating water slides I have ever experienced.

Once I had gotten my fix of sunshine and water slides, I enjoyed the huge selection of bars and restaurants on the grounds of the resort, quickly realizing that you could spend your entire trip in Atlantis without ever leaving the confines or exploring the rest of the island. Granted, I had traveled to the Bahamas to unwind, but my spirit of adventure is strong, and I eventually wanted to see what else Nassau had to offer.

I didn’t know much about the history of the town, but wandering through city center gave me an idea of what life may have been like in the past. Despite the tourists wandering to and fro, and merchants hawking their “authentic” wares, there was an ancient energy in the streets, bouncing off the old buildings and radiating off the sun-drenched alleys. I stopped in the Pirates of Nassau Museum to learn a bit more about the city, and was surprised to find out that three hundred years ago, it had been named a pirate republic, and more than 1,000 pirates had called this place home.

In some ways, although the pirates are gone, the locals hungry for gold are still here – cajoling passers-by to check out their stands, working the streets, and thriving in this Caribbean paradise. Traditional saltfish and ackee joints were butted up beside the Hard Rock Café and diamond dealers, showing that while commercialism had certainly come to the city, the underlying culture and history refused to be forgotten.

Every person I met was friendly and curious, wondering what had brought me to the island, what I was looking for, and if they could help me find it. That constant sense of hustle was everywhere, in stark contrast to what many visitors, myself included, had come to the island to enjoy. The blend of tropical calm and energetic excitement was an interesting space to explore, but eventually, I wanted to find some peace and quiet. Asking one of the eager advisers on the street about nearby beaches, I was directed to Montagu Beach, a bit east of city center, which is the site of Fort Montagu, the island’s oldest fort. The beach wasn’t nearly as crowded as Cabbage Beach (on Paradise Island, near Atlantis), nor was the view blocked by rows of exotic resorts like you might find on Cable Beach.

Cable Beach was a quiet spot where locals could come to escape the crowds, and when I arrived, it was nearly empty. With a great view of the Atlantic Resort, perfect white-powder sand and warm Caribbean surf, I finally felt like I was disappearing in paradise.Seeing the sharks in the Atlantis marine habitat was amazing, but I wanted to see some underwater creatures without the safety of a glass tube, so the next day, after a delicious breakfastat Murray’s Deli, I took a taxi to Gambier Deep Reef, about ten miles west of city center, and rented some snorkel gear for the day. The beach seemed populated with locals, along with a few scuba diving groups, but I didn’t feel out of place. Wading out through the unbelievably clear water, I strapped on my mask and took the plunge.

I have snorkeled in a number of reefs around the world, but this experience was one I would never forget. The colorful explosion of the coral was shocking, and the slow, gentle wave of sponges and anemones was entrancing. Tiny tropical fish darted all around me once I made it out to the center of the reef, fearless, fast and mesmerizing. Although I stayed near the surface, I could see that the reef dropped at least 50 or 60 feet down, and shadowy stingrays and other stunning marine creatures occasionally flitted past. Emerging from the water a couple hours later, I felt both relaxed and invigorated, connected with this stunning island, its unrivaled natural beauty, as well as the mysterious history.

On my final night in Nassau, I returned to Atlantis, caught one more indescribable sunset, and reflected on what had been an unexpectedly profound trip. I had expected beaches and sunshine, but I didn’t know that Nassau would hold such a rich culture, as connected to its past as it is to the changing present, where it was trying to survive – and thrive.

]]>https://dr-thiago.com/2017/04/21/heaven-on-earth-nassau-bahamas/feed/1I LOVE THE “BEAUTY BERRY”https://dr-thiago.com/2017/04/17/i-love-the-beauty-berry/
https://dr-thiago.com/2017/04/17/i-love-the-beauty-berry/#respondMon, 17 Apr 2017 18:43:34 +0000http://dr-thiago.com/?p=244Continued]]>One excellent ingredient in EMK skin care is the berry ‘Sea Buckthorn.’ Outside the wellness circles, the healing power of this berry is not widely known throughout the western world.

I have always been a big fan of this potent antioxidant, and then I found out that EMK implemented this berry successfully in their skin care treatments. In fact EMK is now a leader in harvesting Sea Buckthorn berries from organic fields in the mountains of Tibet, where purity is the best. They then export the whole organic berry to Germany for purest extraction of the Sea Buckthorn Oil, guaranteeing the highest 100% organic USDA quality. I started to understand that a skin care company could significantly improve the health of my patients.

EMK offers 100% Sea Buckthorn Oil in a food supplement that can be used either topically or orally. Its regular use can contribute to longevity. I had not seen any other company use this potent antioxidant in so many clever ways!

The nutritional and medicinal value of Sea berry, also called Sea buckthorn, is less known in North America, but has been exploited in Eurasia for centuries. The sea buckthorn industry has been thriving in Russia since the 1940s, when scientists there began investigating the biologically active substances found in the fruit, leaves, and bark. They developed products used by their cosmonauts, such as a cream for protection from cosmic radiation.

Sea buckthorn is still being investigated for its ability to reduce the incidence of cancer and also for halting or reversing the growth of cancers. The juice of this berry is a component of many vitamin-rich cosmetic preparations used to reverse the effects of aging. Sea berry juice and its oils are also said to heal burns, eczema, and radiation injury.

The Sea buckthorn berry packs 12 times the amount of vitamin C that can be found in an orange, and it is also the only plant-based source of every possible omega fatty acid. The buckthorn is a shrub that grows abundantly in colder climates of China, Mongolia, Russia, Scandinavia, and Canada.

These tough little berries can withstand bitter winds and have one of the highest levels of vitamin C of any fruit. No wonder it’s hailed as the next superfood!

During the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Sea Buckthorn was even used to help heal the skin of burn victims.

Tibetan locals call Sea Buckthorn “Life Oil” and regard it as a powerful, all-inclusive wonder oil for internal and external use. I call Sea Buckthorn the King of the Superfruits!! Furthermore, I am extremely proud of EMK for making the best use of it, so that it can help as many people as possible!

Sea buckthorn’s nutritional profile is unique and impressive. It is the most potent plant source in the world for the elusive Omega-7 fatty acid. This rare Omega fatty acid is undergoing clinical research worldwide and shows impressive advantages for overall well being, cardiovascular health, and oral and digestive care, as well as wonderful beauty perks for glowing hair, skin and nails. Sea buckthorn also contains the strongest antioxidant profile of all superfruits, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), the super antioxidant, along with flavonoids, polyphenols, and over 190 phytonutrients. Alongside Vitamins C, K, E, and minerals of potassium and copper, it also provides Omega-3, -6, and -9 from a vegan source.

The synergy provided by sea buckthorn is two-fold. It provides almost every nutrient the body needs and the synergistic health benefits that no single nutrient can. In terms of essential fatty acids, it has every single one of them, including a near 1:1 ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6, which is considered ideal for humans. With vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and flavonoids, it packs a more potent punch than almost any other food!

Sea buckthorn, in Europe and Asia especially, has traditionally been used to combat radiation sickness. Before cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin went into space, he was provided an unusually large dose of sea buckthorn as a preventative and protective measure against the radiation found in space.

Studies have shown that many nutritional qualities of sea buckthorn may be used as a defense against radiation poisoning. Radiation famously takes the body’s immune system down a notch, rendering your body’s germ defense capabilities much lower. To counter that, the flavonoid or antioxidant content of sea buckthorn is unusually high. Science is coming around to what Traditional Chinese Medicine has understood for centuries: Sea buckthorn may be an effective burn treatment technique.

One of the most common treatments for various forms of cancer in many stages is, of course, radiation. This is an extension of the Traditional Chinese Medicine connection and the cosmonaut connection: therefore, prolonged exposure to radiation may demand all-natural treatment from sea buckthorn. Traditionally, sea buckthorn is grown and nurtured in high-radiation environments, and has thus become naturally loaded with radiation defenses that can be passed along to you

As you move forward in your understanding of total health and nutrition, you’ve probably come to the conclusion that simpler is better. Eat your vegetables. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Berries make better. Sea buckthorn is no new product; it has been used for centuries to facilitate total body health.

EMK is my #1 choice for patients when I recommend an anti-aging supportive skin care line that features healthy natural and organic ingredients.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Sitting roughly 30 kilometers off the mainland coast of northeastern Malaysia is a hidden gem of the region – Langkawi. This archipelago of more than 100 islands is an incredible corner of the planet that simply begs to be explored, and I had the absolute pleasure of traveling there last year. I have been fortunate to travel throughout the world in my life, but this is truly a jewel of the Pacific Ocean

However, don’t take my word for it… the official title of Langkawi is “The Jewel of Kedah”, which is the name of the state where Langkawi can be found. The largest island, and where I spent a great deal of my time, is aptly called Langkawi Island, and has a population of roughly 65,000 people.

I have always been drawn to beauty that is off the beaten track, and while it is the largest island tourist attraction in Malaysia, there were times during my travels where I felt like I had been let in on a secret. Fortunately, I have never been very good at keeping secrets, so I wanted to share my experience with you.

Despite being an island paradise, this is not a place to simply go and lie on a beach. This natural wonder is packed with exciting activities, tumbling waterfalls, stunning museums, friendly wildlife, unforgettable hikes, bustling markets and riveting outdoor adventures. I spent a little over a week in Langkawi, and did my best to enjoy all that these islands had to offer.

As a doctor who has dedicated his life to natural treatments and a holistic approach to health, I often immerse myself back in nature, tapping into local traditions, learning from different cultures, and expanding my understanding of the human body. However, on this particular trip, the majesty of Langkawi’s natural abundance was impossible to ignore.

Waterfalls and jungle

For anyone who has admitted their addiction to hiking the most beautiful spots in the world, you should definitely plan a trip to Langkawi at some point in the near future. The rainforests laying gently over the two tallest mountains on Langkawi offer endless opportunities for hiking through dense jungle paths and encountering untouched areas of nature. The Langkawi Jungle Trek was an exceptional three-hour hike that took me through the Mount Mat Cincang jungle, a UNESCO-protected area of the island. You could feel the ancient soul of that place, with exposed rock that is over 550 millions years old, as well as a symphony of cackling birds throughout the journey, and even the chance for a refreshing dip in a jungle stream. You can take the hike at night for a better chance at a close encounter with the island’s wildlife, but I chose a daytime trip instead.

However, three hours simply wasn’t enough for me, and I wanted to see the heart of that mountain – or at least the top of it – so I took the journey to the Mount Mat Cincang Peak. I’ll say right from the start that this is not for the faint of heart, and should only be attempted by serious hikers. It starts with a seemingly endless climb up more than 600 steps to the Seven Wells waterfalls, which cascade down jagged faces of rock with all the geometric logic of a Picasso painting. After dipping my toes in and peeking over the edge, I set off on an invigorating climb into the rainforest, passing through orchid groves and towering trees, with the summit always slightly out of reach. However, when I finally stood at the top of the peak, the entire island lay spread out before me. It is the second-highest peak in Langkawi, and the lush, sprawling landscape made me feel like I was on top of the world. It was worth every step.

By that point, I had experienced my first waterfall in Malaysia, but that didn’t quench my thirst. After speaking to a few of the locals – all of whom were wonderfully friendly – I was pointed in the direction of the “best” waterfall in Langkawi, the Durian Perangin Waterfall. When I finally reached the base, my jaw dropped as I watched it tumble down the side of the tallest mountain on the island, Mount Raya. Bouncing and rumbling through 14 tiers before collecting in a shallow, crystal-clear pool, this waterfall might require a healthy hike to reach it, but every step will be worth it. I visited the spot on a weekday, and there were only a handful of travelers gazing up at the impressive cascade, and there was a sense of calm and peace. We were sharing a moment of spiritual tranquility in what felt like a truly magical spot. The hike back was one of silence and meditation, taking in the vibrant greens, listening for every bird call or rustle in the distance, and allowing myself to connect with nature.

Back in the city, my appetite for natural wonders temporarily satisfied, I turned to more cultural attractions. I had already met a number of locals, and had been given various pieces of advice about the best spots for local food, and the must-see markets of the island. In an area known as Ayer Hangat, I was told about a night market that occurred every Friday, and I was very curious. As it turned out, it was more of a constant buffet of incredible food – from bamboo-steamed sticky rice to mouth-melting chilies and fresh fish no more than a few hours old. Being so close to Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, there were some flavors and influences I recognized, but the overall Langkawi cuisine in that night market was like nothing I had ever experienced before.

The next day, I started my adventures with a slow crawl up Machinchang Mountain in the SkyCab, a cable car with a glass bottom, before heading over to the SkyBridge, the longest free span and curved bridge in the world, hanging above a vertigo-inspiring valley between two mountain peaks. It was a breathtaking stroll, and one that no traveler to Langkawi should skip. Once I got my feet back on solid ground, I wandered through Art in Paradise, a 3D museum that drew a major crowd of photo-seeking tourists, as well as a number of other small shops, theaters and open-stall markets.

Encountering the friendly macaques

By that point in my trip, I felt as though I had explored the far-flung natural beauty of Langkawi, but I hadn’t properly experienced it in my own backyard. That all changed when I had my first encounter with some of the island-dwelling macaques, small brown monkeys who are very bold and eager to interact with people, primarily to beg for a bite or even frighten tourists into dropping whatever street food they might be holding. Some people were shocked to see the monkeys so casually interacting and moving around the city, but I enjoyed it. It was wonderful to be in a place where an urban center could embrace the land in which it sits. Langkawi is a place where human culture and the natural world can overlap, interact and coexist; it was inspiring, to say the least.

I was coming to the end of my adventure in Langkawi, and after all that hiking, what I wanted to do most was lie down on an undisturbed beach, stroll the surf at sundown, and reflect on what a strange and spectacular place Malaysia had turned out to be. However, with more than a dozen “perfect” beaches scattered around the main island, I needed a bit of guidance on which to choose. After briefly explaining what I was looking for to another friendly guide, I was directed to Tanjung Rhu Beach, featuring a long strip of pure-white sand and a view of the ocean dotted with other islands of the archipelago.

Stepping into those warm tropical waters, I was struck by the sapphire-blue water, so clean and inviting, stretching out like a vast carpet of jewels, and I suddenly understood how Langkawi had earned its nickname. There wasn’t a tourist in site, just myself and a few families dotting the beach, as though I had once again been let in on one of the island’s secret haunts. While lying down in the shallow surf and letting the waves lap against me, I closed my eyes and imagined the last time I had felt so at peace. A place that can deliver that level of clarity and calm is rare in these fast-paced, modern times, and on my drive back along the coastal road to the city center, I couldn’t help but smile.

Leaving a place is always difficult, whether you’ve been visiting for a week or living there for decades. You leave a part of yourself, and those places imprint strongly on your idea of the broader world. I had no idea what to expect when I came to Langkawi, just a curious hunger for exploration and the desire to soak up some beauty. What I found was a welcoming, awe-inspiring haven where Man and Mother Nature meet. While it was certainly hard to leave such a paradise on Earth, I have a feeling that I’ll be back someday. In the meantime, you should go and experience it for yourself!